If you are one of our elderly citizens you will know that all the ideas about fire safety are nothing new. The facts are that you are no more likely to have a fire than anyone else, but you are more likely to become a victim of fire should it occur.

It is, therefore, particularly important that you consider our advice on kitchen safety as the kitchen is where most fires occur. Also, the sections on electric blankets and portable heaters are helpful. Smoking, especially when combined with tiredness, increases the risk of fire and electrical wiring and appliances are known to cause problems if not looked after.

Some of you may have experienced chimney fires and appreciate the need to have the chimney swept, but you may not have considered the dangers of carbon monoxide associated with lack of ventilation or poorly maintained appliances.

It is worth remembering the dangers to children with matches and lighters when the grandchildren come visiting.

If you have any doubts about smoke alarms then a quick look at our pages on these inexpensive life-savers will persuade you that they are an essential part of every home.

Finally, if a fire does occur, you must have an escape plan so that everyone in the house knows what to do, in order to get out alive.

If day to day tasks are becoming more difficult because of older age and you would like some help and assistance then we at Surrey may be able to help you.

All Surrey households can receive a free home fire safety visit that looks to minimise the risk of fire in the home.

See our fire prevention and detection pages for other information on fire safety issues.